Brand name:

Children's Motrin Cold Oral Suspension

Pronounced: MO-trin

Generic ingredients: Ibuprofen, Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride

What this drug is used for

With a combination of the painkiller ibuprofen and the decongestant pseudoephedrine, this product temporarily relieves symptoms of the common cold, sinusitis (swelling and pain in the sinuses), and flu, including stuffy nose, sore throat, fever, headache, and body aches and pains. This combination of ingredients is also available in pill form for adults (see Advil Cold and Sinus).

How should you take this medication?

Give no more than 4 doses each 24 hours. The usual dosage is:
Ages 6 to 11: 2 teaspoonfuls
Ages 2 to 5: 1 teaspoonful

If the child has occasional mild heartburn, upset stomach, or stomach pain while using this product, give it with food or milk. If the stomach problems continue or get worse, call your doctor.

* STORAGE
Store at room temperature.

Do not take this medication if...

Get your doctor's approval before using this product if the child has stomach pain, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, or thyroid disease, or is under treatment for any serious medical problem. Also check before use if the child has not been taking liquids or has lost a lot of fluid due to vomiting or diarrhea.

If the child is allergic to other over-the-counter pain relievers or decongestants, do not use this product. It could cause a similar reaction. If the child has had serious side effects from similar over-the-counter products, or is taking any prescription drugs, check with your doctor before using this medication.

Special warnings about this medication

Stop using this product and check with a doctor if fever, pain, and congestion show no improvement after a day, get worse, or last for more than 3 days. Also stop use and check with your doctor if the child has an allergic reaction. Signs of an allergic reaction may include hives, facial swelling, wheezing, and shock.

If the child has a severe or persistent sore throat, or a sore throat accompanied by high fever, headache, or nausea, do not use this product for more than 2 days. Check with a doctor before giving this product for sore throat if the child is under 3.

If the child becomes nervous or dizzy, or has trouble sleeping while taking this product, stop using it and call your doctor. Do likewise if the painful area is red or swollen or new symptoms appear.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking this medication

Do not give this product within 2 weeks of a drug classified as an MAO inhibitor, such as the antidepressants Nardil and Parnate.

Do not combine with other products containing ibuprofen, such as Motrin or Nuprin, or with other nonprescription pain relievers such as Aspirin or Tylenol.